Broadcasters losing ears to the Web

FrankBarnako

Researchers reported Tuesday that 68 percent of people who found their online radio streaming sources halted recently were able to locate alternative audio programming online. Many broadcasters suspended streaming because of union agreements requiring fee payments, with Internet-only sources potentially standing to gain. "Traditional radio stations that have temporarily discontinued their rebroadcasts on the Web risk losing their audiences," said Bill Rose, general manager and vice president, Arbitron
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Webcast services.

On a related note, Portland, Ore.-based MeasureCast said its gauge of streaming media usage slipped almost 5 percent last week from the previous week. However, the research firm's data indicate the total number of hours streamed by online broadcasters has increased 72 percent since January. Of the 10 most popular streaming programming sources, eight are available only through the Internet, including MediaAmazing.com (ranked No. 1), Radio Margaritaville (No. 2) and Cablemusic Hot 100 (No. 3).

Separately, a company offering video news and information on demand says its usage has risen almost 300 percent since April. The FeedRoom said its network delivered almost 700,000 stories to viewers in May. The news network offers video from about three-dozen local and national sources delivered through partnerships with, among others, Tribune Co.
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and NBC, owned by General Electric
GE, +0.82%

Newsstand adds two

Scotland's daily financial newspaper and New York-based The Daily Deal have inked agreements to have their publications delivered digitally over the Internet. Austin, Texas-based NewsStand Inc.'s technology and distribution service offers digital versions of the newspapers for access via computer. "Readers will benefit from easy electronic access to Scottish business, financial, and political content, while Business a.m. and advertisers will benefit from increased sales channels," said Jim Chisholm, managing director of Business a.m. The publications will offer digital subscriptions and single-copy sales, although costs were not announced.

Yahoo to offer ADSL in Japan

Yahoo
YHOO
said Tuesday it will start offering high-speed Internet access services via its Japanese site at rates lower than those offered by Nippon Telegraph & Telephone
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Rates will be set at about $18.50 a month, half what NTT charges. "To provide service this good, this cheaply, required a bold management decision. The capital expenditures will not be small," Softbank President Masayoshi Son told a news conference, Reuters reported.

Promoting Web privacy awareness

TRUSTe, a technology trade group, said Tuesday it will develop graphic icons and a seal of approval to help consumers understand Web site privacy practices. With participation by government and businesses, "consumers will have more actionable, relevant information about the uses of their personal data," said Lori Fena, chairman of TRUSTe. Seals of approval can be effective in indicating that a site is monitored by a third party and that it adheres to high standards, she said. Initial supporters include the Information Technology Association of America, the Personal Communications Industry Association, and the Wireless Advertising Association.

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